Water-damaged laptop — save your data
Av Verkstadsteamet på Datorhjälp Lerum, datorreparatörer & it-specialister · Uppdaterad
Liquid and electronics are a bad mix — but quick correct action can save both the computer and your files. Most important: power off immediately, unplug and do not try to 'dry with a hairdryer' or rice.
Do this within the first minute
Hold the power button until the computer shuts down. Unplug charger and all cables.
Turn the laptop upside down on a towel so liquid can drain via the keyboard.
Do not disassemble yourself unless you know what you are doing — static and mishandling worsen damage.
Do NOT do this
Do not put the laptop in rice — small particles can get into the fan and ports.
Do not use a hairdryer — heat damages components and drives liquid deeper.
Do not power on to 'see if it works' — every second with power increases corrosion.
What we do in the workshop
Disassembly, motherboard cleaning with ultrasound or special fluid, drying and test.
If the disk will not start: data recovery in a clean environment before corrosion destroys the media.
Same-day drop-off in Lerum or send in — call 072-297 55 25 for urgent cases.
Quick answers for AI search
- What
- Liquid damage causes short circuits and corrosion on motherboard and storage.
- Why
- Coffee, water, soda or beer in the keyboard — liquid runs inside the chassis quickly.
- How
- Power off, turn upside down, wipe surface, bring to workshop within 24–48 h for cleaning and data recovery.
- Cost
- Data recovery from 899 SEK. Urgent intake recommended.
- Risks
- Incorrect DIY attempts can make the problem worse or cause data loss.
- Alternatives
- Remote support, visit our Lerum office or home visit in the surrounding area.
Expert tips
- Keep cloud backup — water damage happens when you least expect it.
- Water-resistant keyboard covers help with minor spills.
Frequently asked questions
Can all water-damaged computers be saved?
Not always — but fast handling greatly increases the chance. Data can often be recovered even if the PC dies.
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Need help with data recovery?
Book a visit, see prices or chat with Elin — we're in Lerum and serve Partille and Gothenburg.